Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Childhood obesity is a significant public health concern globally, with long-term negative consequences on physical and psychological well-being. Parental involvement has been identified as a crucial factor in the management of childhood obesity, yet the extent of its impact in a primary care setting remains underexplored. This thesis aims to investigate the impact of parental involvement on the management of childhood obesity in a primary care setting, focusing on the roles, challenges, and outcomes associated with parental engagement in the treatment process. The study will employ a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather data from parents/caregivers of children with obesity, healthcare providers, and other relevant stakeholders. The research will be conducted in primary care settings to capture the real-world context in which parental involvement occurs. The quantitative analysis will assess the levels of parental involvement and its correlation with treatment outcomes, while the qualitative component will explore the experiences, perceptions, and barriers faced by parents and healthcare providers. The findings of this study are expected to provide valuable insights into the impact of parental involvement on the management of childhood obesity, shedding light on the mechanisms through which parental engagement can influence treatment effectiveness. By identifying the factors that promote or hinder parental involvement, healthcare providers can develop tailored interventions and strategies to enhance parental participation in the management of childhood obesity. This research contributes to the existing literature by offering a comprehensive analysis of parental involvement in the context of childhood obesity management in primary care settings. The implications of the findings extend to healthcare policy, clinical practice, and community-based interventions aimed at addressing childhood obesity and promoting holistic family-centered care. Ultimately, this study seeks to enhance our understanding of the critical role parents play in the treatment of childhood obesity and to provide evidence-based recommendations for improving outcomes in this population. Keywords Childhood obesity, parental involvement, primary care, treatment outcomes, mixed-methods, family-centered care.

Thesis Overview